East Lansing City Councilman Kevin Beard will not seek re-election.MLive file photo

EAST LANSING -- East Lansing City Councilman Kevin Beard announced Tuesday he will not seek re-election this fall, ending his eight-year tenure on the council.

He said other professional opportunities have arisen and he will not have the time the council requires.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my service to the community," Beard said in a statement. "I consider having the trust and confidence of the the citizens of East Lansing a high honor. I have made this decision after consulting with my family."

Beard was first elected to the City Council in 2005, then re-elected in 2009. Before that, he served on the city's Parks and Recreation Commission from 2004 to 2005 and on the Planning Commission from 1996 to 2003.

A 1983 graduate of Michigan State Univesrity, Beard worked in human resources, safety and education and training for GM for 31 years before retiring. He has been an East Lansing resident since 1984.

"I have professional
opportunities which will require a tremendous amount of my time and I do not
believe I will be able to serve the citizens of East Lansing at the
level they deserve," Beard said. "Therefore I have decided to forgo a third
term. I look forward to helping out in the city as I am able."